Silversmithing in the United States dates back to Colonial times when craftsmen formed practical and decorative works from alloy melted at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Although you can learn silversmithing at a fine arts college today, years spent learning under the tutelage of a master silversmith remain the means by which some still learn the craft. Trained silversmiths often must seek innovative ways to earn a living because of the entrepreneurial nature of the profession.

Manufacture

Silversmith training provides you with the skills necessary to manufacture silver products, which you can do independently in your own workshop. Working independently allows you to design and create silver products inspired by your artistic vision. You also can seek employment with silver manufacturers. Such employers typically hire trained silversmiths for positions that include engravers, die cutters, lapidary specialists and jewelry designers, according to the Society of American Silversmiths.

Sell

Your ability to sell your silver creations is not limited by the lack of a store front. Silver enthusiasts look for unusual silver products online, in retail stores and at craft fairs. Build your clientele by opening an online store. You can market your silver products to your personal email list and build you customer base by maintaining a blog and participating in social networking forums. Approach retail store buyers about purchasing your work or selling on consignment when you have a substantial catalog to offer. You also can sell your silver creations at local and national craft fairs.

Recycle and Repair

Antique stores and estate auctioneers amass old silver flatware, vessels and plates that can be smelted and reshaped into silver bullion, wire and other findings. Use the recycled silver to craft your own products or resell it at auction online or to a larger silver recycling company. Generally speaking, silver sells for the price determined by the world market, which fluctuates on a daily basis. You also can use your training in smelting and soldering silver to repair silver products including jewelry and vessels. Such repair services permit antique silver owners and collectors to use the silver works as they were intended to be used or to sell them for high prices.

Teach

Community centers, art colleges, parks and recreation departments and arts and crafts guilds are among the organizations that routinely hire fine arts and crafts instructors to teach classes. Such organizations pay instructors a fee for knowledge -- colleges paying much more than community organizations -- which can add up over time, depending on how many such classes you teach. If you gain satisfaction by sharing knowledge, write a curriculum and teach silversmith classes at various levels. Some organizations may invite you to exhibit your jewelry, an opportunity that could gain you exposure and customers.

About the Author

Maya Black has been covering business, food, travel, cultural topics and decorating since 1992. She has bachelor's degree in art and a master's degree in cultural studies from University of Texas, a culinary arts certificate and a real estate license. Her articles appear in magazines such as Virginia Living and Albemarle.